Diet and physical activity behaviour in nurses: a qualitative study
Article
Article Title | Diet and physical activity behaviour in nurses: a qualitative study |
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ERA Journal ID | 13760 |
Article Category | Article |
Authors | Torquati, Luciana (Author), Kolbe-Alexander, Tracy L (Author), Pavey, Toby (Author), Perrson, Christina (Author) and Leveritt, Michael (Author) |
Journal Title | International Journal of Health Promotion and Education |
Journal Citation | 54 (6), pp. 268-282 |
Number of Pages | 15 |
Year | 2016 |
Place of Publication | United Kingdom |
ISSN | 1368-1222 |
1463-5240 | |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1080/14635240.2016.1169943 |
Abstract | Issue addressed: Previous research has shown that approximately 60% of nurses in Australia are overweight or obese, insufficiently active and have an unhealthy diet. The aim of this study was to gain an understanding of nurses’ determinants contributing to these behaviours. This will inform a needs assessment for a future workplace health promotion program (WHPP) in this group. Methods: Four focus group discussions (n = 17) were conducted with a convenience sample of nurses aged 25–59 years from three hospitals in the Brisbane metropolitan area. Questions addressed barriers and motivation towards diet and physical activity (PA), and suggestions for future WHPP. Data were analysed with Nvivo10 following a thematic analysis with a realistic approach using Self-determination theory as a framework. Results: Work environment was the main barrier for healthy diet behaviours. Long working hours and lack of breaks challenged nurses’ self-control and self-regulation when making dietary choices. Fatigue was the main barrier for PA. However, relaxation, feeling energised before work and better sleep after working night shifts motivated nurses to do PA. Social environment at work seemed to be an effective external motivation to encourage healthy diet and regular PA. Goal-setting, self-monitoring and social support at work were identified as potential WHHP strategies. Conclusion: The workplace and job demands negatively impacts nurses’ lifestyle behaviours. Future interventions should include social support from colleagues, which could motivate nurses to make healthier food choices at work and be more active outside work. |
Keywords | nutrition; physical activity; qualitative research; workplace health promotion |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 321005. Public health nutrition |
420799. Sports science and exercise not elsewhere classified | |
420599. Nursing not elsewhere classified | |
Public Notes | Files associated with this item cannot be displayed due to copyright restrictions. |
Byline Affiliations | University of Queensland |
Gothemburg University, Sweden | |
Institution of Origin | University of Southern Queensland |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/q3xxx/diet-and-physical-activity-behaviour-in-nurses-a-qualitative-study
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